Te Whanau Kotahi Community Trust

History In the mid nineties a group of parents started to question whether the best support for their children with disabilities was provided by the hospital setting of the then DHB managed child development service. Their enthusiasm and tenacity eventually led to acceptance of the proposal for the child and family joint venture by the Ministry of Health and incorporation under the Charitable Trusts Act in December 1997.

The Trust took responsibility for the child development service from the DHB in 1998 and shared premises with CCS Disability Action who were partners in setting the new approach. In 1999 the Iwi of Tauranga Moana gifted the new name of Te Whanau Kotahi to reflect the style and scope of the community focused Trust.

The philosophy of the organisation is firmly based on inclusive practice and social role valorisation remains an underlying principle of the approach. High importance is placed on working with the wishes of children and their family/whanau plus providing support in everyday settings.

Trustees The Trustees include parents of children with disabilities, experts in the area of child development and community representatives.